A new study finds that heavy rains deliver the greatest amounts of fertilizer-derived nitrogen through creeks and rivers into the northern Gulf of Mexico. The research can be used to develop policies to protect the gulf from nutrient overloading, harmful algal blooms, and oxygen-depleted 'dead zones'.
SourceBoston College·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2024
A new long-term soil health survey in Uganda aims to understand the role of tenure security and plot decision-makers in soil health outcomes. The survey identifies differences in soil health between plots managed by women farmers and men farmers.
SourceInternational Food Policy Research Institute·DateDec 5, 2024
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Researchers from RCEES have developed a sustainable technology to selectively reduce nitrate to ammonium, increasing rice yield by over 20% while reducing fertilizer usage. The approach also improves nitrogen absorption and reduces environmental risks associated with nitrate pollution.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalPANS·DateDec 4, 2024
A new nitrification inhibitor, copper pyrazole, has been developed to slow down the nitrification and denitrification processes in nitrogen transformation. The study found that copper pyrazole reduces urease activity and lowers the levels of key genes involved in nitrogen cycling.
SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateNov 25, 2024
A new study by Iowa State University researchers finds that nearly half of soybean-related emissions come from the natural processes in soil, which can be mitigated through strategies like planting winter cover crops and adjusting planting schedules. These solutions have been found to reduce emissions by one-third while increasing yields.
SourceIowa State University·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 20, 2024
A recent study found that heavy rains after droughts can cause nitrates to seep into groundwater in as little as 10 days. The study highlights the need for affordable, real-time soil nitrate monitoring tools to help farmers manage fertilizer use efficiently.
SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalWater Resources Research·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 13, 2024
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Researchers at Utah State University and Polytechnic University of Madrid report a simpler pathway for nitrogen fixation in plants, involving just seven genes. This discovery could alleviate hunger in less-developed areas and reduce the carbon footprint of fertilizer production.
SourceUtah State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 7, 2024
Increased nitrogen deposition from human activity is reducing diversity and evolutionary distinctiveness of nitrogen-fixing plants. The loss of these plants threatens both biodiversity and ecosystem stability, according to a study published in Science Advances.
SourceMississippi State University·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 18, 2024
A study links droughts in Southern Africa to a massive plankton bloom off Madagascar's southeast coast. Climate warming intensified the dust particles carried by wind, which acted as fertilizer in seawater, creating ideal conditions for phytoplankton growth.
Researchers found that new wheat cultivars achieve 16% higher yields under current climate conditions, but overall nitrogen needs will increase with global warming. The team recommends a systemic approach to food security, combining agricultural science, environmental aspects, and policy makers.
SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Plants·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 27, 2024
A new multi-state study identified three management tips to extend green color and reduce cold-weather injury in hybrid bermudagrass: raising mowing height, applying nitrogen fertilizer in the fall, and maintaining adequate soil moisture. The research found that slow-release nitrogen applications through mid-September had positive impa...
SourceUniversity of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture·JournalCrop Forage & Turfgrass Management·DateSep 26, 2024
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Researchers found that nitrogen applications had a limited impact on soybean yields, with no consistent benefit from single applications. However, a single application at planting showed increased yields in certain conditions, particularly in soils with low organic matter.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateSep 24, 2024
A recent study from the University of Illinois provides new insights into the sources and processes affecting nitrogen load in tile drainage water. The research team found a large legacy pool of nitrate in the soil, resulting in a time lag between when nitrogen is added to the system and when it is exported as nitrate in tile drainage.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateSep 12, 2024
The study analyzed historical trends in sugarcane and sugar beet yield, agricultural input, carbon footprint, and economic benefits in China. By adopting optimized crop models, GHG emission reduction potential can be achieved by 32% and total annual cost can be reduced by 24% by 2030.
SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2024
A recent study found that high nitrogen fertilizer application significantly enhances soil carbon sequestration, primarily through vertical transport of organic matter. This redistribution leads to a greater distribution of new organic carbon in deeper soil layers, resulting in increased soil carbon storage.
SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 8, 2024
Studies explore converting leftover wastewater from hydrothermal liquefaction into fertilizer for agricultural crops. Using a fungal treatment, researchers found significant increases in nitrate and ammonia concentrations, increasing nutrient availability. The method also removes toxic compounds, enabling circular economy applications.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalHeliyon·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2024
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A newly engineered hydrogel-infused soil system has been developed to capture water from the air and release nutrients, resulting in larger, healthier plants using less water and fertilizer. The technology has shown promising results in experiments, with a 138% increase in stem length compared to regular soil.
SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalACS Materials Letters·DateJul 17, 2024
A research team at Ruhr University Bochum has developed a catalyst that can convert ammonia into hydrogen and nitrite, producing both a clean energy carrier and a fertilizer precursor simultaneously. The process doubles the hydrogen yield while minimizing nitrogen production.
SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 15, 2024
Researchers are developing solutions to reduce nitrogen fertilizer-related emissions and accelerate drought-resistant tea varieties. The trials will inform a new tea typology, enabling accurate carbon footprint calculation across the industry.
Researchers developed low-cost, real-time sensors that can monitor nitrate in soil, enabling farmers to make informed decisions on fertilizer usage. The sensors have been tested in various soil types and showed accurate results.
SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 27, 2024
A new study by RIKEN CSRS shows that biomass from purple photosynthetic marine bacterium Rhodovulum sulfidophilum is an excellent nitrogen fertilizer, effective as inorganic synthetic fertilizers but with lower environmental side effects. The biomass boosts plant growth without altering soil pH or salinity.
SourceRIKEN·Journalnpj Sustainable Agriculture·DateJun 21, 2024
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A study found that smallholder farmers in Tanzania used more fertilizer and had higher crop yields after an intervention, but the benefits did not last. The researchers attribute the lack of long-term adoption to liquidity constraints and structural factors such as fertilizer availability.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalEconomic Development and Cultural Change·TypeObservational study·DateJun 18, 2024
A new method discovered by researchers has the potential to reduce agricultural nitrous oxide emissions in Europe by one-third. The solution involves growing special bacteria that can convert harmful nitrous oxide into harmless nitrogen gas, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature·DateMay 30, 2024
A new tool identifies toxic metals in mineral phosphate fertilizers worldwide, with higher levels found in US and Middle East fertilizers compared to China and India. Researchers use strontium isotopes to detect fertilizer impacts on soil and water resources.
SourceDuke University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·TypeObservational study·DateMay 17, 2024
Shifting excess nitrogen from rich countries to poor ones could increase crop production by 12%, with moderate/food insecure regions seeing significant gains in both fertilizer use and food output. Current levels of production could be maintained with only 53-68% of current nitrogen used through redistribution.
A new accounting method evaluates the impact of agricultural practices on nitrous oxide emissions, finding long-term no-till management and specific fertilizer types can effectively cut emissions. The study provides a more accurate estimate of N2O emissions than previous methods, enabling policymakers to make informed recommendations.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateMay 2, 2024
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Researchers propose green intelligent fertilizers to address the gap between fertilizer industry and agriculture, promoting eco-friendly practices and maximizing nutrient utilization. The new fertilizers aim to improve crop yield, quality, and nutritional balance while minimizing environmental footprint.
SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 23, 2024
The Yangtze River Basin faces severe water quality issues due to excessive fertilizer and pesticide use, as well as the inappropriate disposal of agricultural waste. The study highlights the need for balancing green agriculture with development to ensure food security and water quality.
SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 15, 2024
Researchers analyze solutions implemented in four Brazilian cities, proposing a national carbon credit fund to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase revenue through the circular economy. The study finds that efficient waste management can produce fertilizer, biogas, and generate significant economic benefits.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalHabitat International·DateMar 20, 2024
The study assesses sustainable food system thresholds and proposes management strategies to reduce resource input and environmental impacts. Current indicators show that global cropland area has surpassed the upper boundary, while agricultural water use and fertilizer applications have also exceeded sustainability limits.
SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Earth Sciences·DateFeb 8, 2024
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This study found that high nitrogen fertilizer input shaped more complex microbial networks in paddy soils, with positive links predominating across all networks. The proportion of negative links was increased in the high-N network, suggesting potential competition among microbes.
SourceHigher Education Press·JournalSoil Ecology Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2024
Researchers created an AI-enabled model to help mitigate global ammonia emissions from agriculture. By optimizing fertilizer management, the model can effectively reduce emissions by up to 38%, with Asia having the highest potential for reduction.
SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 1, 2024
Researchers at UW-Madison have developed a new electrochemical method to extract ammonia and potassium from livestock manure, reducing pollution and producing valuable fertilizers. The technique shows promise in scaling up beyond proof-of-concept stage.
SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2023
A long-term study found that green manuring strengthens core microbiomes in soils, promoting organic C mineralization, N fixation, and N2O release. Keystone phylotypes were key to unlocking these functions across vertical soil profiles.
SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·DateDec 12, 2023
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Researchers have found that struvite, a recycled phosphorus fertilizer, can reduce nutrient leaching and maintain soybean yields compared to conventional fertilizers. The study showed that struvite can be a full substitute for traditional fertilizers in terms of yield benefits.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateNov 27, 2023
Scientists have identified two genes, GmMOT1.1 and GmMOT1.2, that control natural variation in molybdate uptake and transport in soybeans. These genes are involved in molybdenum uptake in the roots and root-to-shoot transport of molybdenum, leading to improved molybdenum utilization and soybean yield.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 23, 2023
China's total N2O emissions increased from 889.6 Gg yr-1 in 1980 to 2295.0 Gg yr-1 in 2020, with agriculture making the largest contribution until 2015. However, industrial and energetic sources exceeded agriculture and became the fastest-accelerating N2O sources due to increasing demand for adipic acid and fossil fuels.
SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateNov 21, 2023
The study reveals that human-driven global nutrient imbalances are linked to increased risk of diseases such as coeliac and cancer. The research proposes a new strategy for managing fertilizers by adjusting the N:P ratio, potentially enhancing therapy effectiveness against certain cancers.
SourceNanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences, MEE·JournalEco-Environment & Health·DateOct 25, 2023
A model reveals that corn farming in the US Midwest incurs significant health and environmental costs, with air pollution being a major contributor. Implementing alternative management practices can increase profits beyond these costs, but retiring land may be necessary for some counties.
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Researchers found that adding a social cost to carbon emissions leads to a significant reduction in fertilizer runoff, resulting in improved water quality and a decrease in the Gulf of Mexico's dead zone. The study suggests that implementing a carbon price can help meet the US commitment to the Paris Accord while improving water quality.
SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 17, 2023
Research in Baltimore metropolitan area finds nitrogen-rich fertilizers on lawns contribute to algal blooms and deoxygenated waters. Many homeowners are unaware of the negative impact of their lawn care practices on local ecosystems.
A new method for treating wastewater generated from anaerobic digestion uses coal fly ash to remove pollutants, including COD and TP, with high efficiency. The treatment process also neutralizes pH and reduces heavy metal concentrations, making it suitable for irrigation water.
SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 16, 2023
A global redistribution of nitrogen fertilizer use could reduce grain production in North America, Europe, and East Asia while increasing it in Sub-Saharan Africa. This would decrease nitrogen pollution by 71 percent and positively affect nitrous oxide emissions.
SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 16, 2023
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A research team developed a data fusion strategy combining near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) for fast and accurate detection of compound fertilizer components. The approach improved accuracy by up to 33.5% compared to LIBS alone.
SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalTalanta·DateOct 10, 2023
A new study by the University of Göttingen reveals that oil palms' photosynthesis and response to meteorological and soil conditions play a significant role in N2O production. The research suggests that conventional measurement approaches can underestimate emissions by up to 49%.
SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalGCB Bioenergy·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 4, 2023
Engineering associations between plants and nitrogen-fixing microbes using genetic engineering could lessen dependence on synthetic fertilizer. This approach involves bi-directional signaling to release fixed nitrogen, promoting efficient communication between engineered plants and microbes.
SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Microbiology·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 26, 2023
The Global Nitrogen Innovation Center for Clean Energy and Environment will address the urgent need to produce ammonia using renewable energy, bolstering clean energy initiatives and combatting climate change. However, green ammonia technology may exacerbate environmental problems if not managed properly.
SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·DateSep 19, 2023
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A hybrid catalyst made of zinc and copper produces critical fertilizer and cleans wastewater, reducing carbon footprint and supplying a potential revenue stream. The process involves converting carbon dioxide and waste nitrogen using the hybrid catalyst, achieving an optimal performance ratio.
SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Catalysis·DateSep 11, 2023
Scientists create a pH-controlled oxidation-resistant ferrous foliar fertilizer delivery system that adheres efficiently to hydrophobic leaf surfaces. The innovative technology enhances crop yield and alleviates iron deficiency, offering a viable approach for improving crop nutrition and productivity.
SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 3, 2023
A new Danish study measured nitrous oxide emissions from fertilizer materials in spring barley, finding that commercial fertilizers emit less N2O than previously assumed. Organic fertilizers, including livestock manure and digestates, emitted more N2O on average.
SourceAarhus University·JournalAgriculture Ecosystems & Environment·DateSep 1, 2023
Researchers from Iowa State University and Wichita State University are developing a green fertilizer system that captures waste nitrogen and carbon dioxide to produce a fertilizer reducing nitrous oxide emissions. The project aims to promote sustainable farming practices in the Midwest region.
Researchers at UBC's Bioreactor Technology Group have developed a method to concentrate and recycle phosphorous from municipal waste. The process converts organic components into a petroleum-like bio-crude and concentrates the phosphorous into a solid residue called hydrochar, which has 100 times higher total phosphorus than raw sludge.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalWater Research·DateJul 25, 2023
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A study published in Environmental Chemistry found that over a third of synthetic nitrogen fertilizer use is breaking UK government emissions thresholds. Uninhibited urea fertilizers are the worst offenders, emitting up to 77% of applied nitrogen into the air.
SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalEnvironmental Chemistry·DateJul 20, 2023
A recent study by Florida Atlantic University reveals that sewage is the primary cause of nitrogen surges in the Indian River Lagoon, contradicting previous findings that fertilizer use was the main contributor. The study found that water quality and harmful algal blooms worsened after five years of mandatory wet season fertilizer blac...
SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2023
Researchers at the University of Notre Dame found that removing invasive vegetation from water access points reduced schistosomiasis rates by nearly a third. The removed vegetation can be used as compost and livestock feed, improving food security.
SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalNature·DateJul 12, 2023
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have developed an electrochemical device that can recover phosphorus fertilizer from municipal waste with high efficiency. The device achieved over 93% efficiency in recovering phosphorus and precipitating approximately 99% of it into solid form.
SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 28, 2023
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Aarhus University's AELECTRA project aims to develop a decentralized technology for producing liquid ammonia from renewable energy. The new process could halve investment costs and enable farmers to produce their own fertilizer or e-fuels, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Researchers evaluated three P recovery methods, finding struvite as the most societally feasible method. The study highlights significant benefits of P recovery, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals and promoting sustainable phosphorus supply.
SourceChinese Society for Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·DateJun 1, 2023
Research shows that corn takes up about 67% of its nitrogen naturally from soil, rather than fertilizer. However, applying different forms and timing of fertilizers can improve efficiency, with nitrate being the most efficient source. Banding placement was also found to be more efficient than broadcasting.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateMay 31, 2023
A recent study in Heilongjiang Province, China found a significant positive correlation between farmers' adoption of organic fertilizer and biopesticides. The technical environment played a crucial role in promoting their adoption, with factors such as training, accessibility, and information exchange increasing the likelihood of adopt...
SourceHigher Education Press·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 26, 2023
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